Overview of Trekking
There are many popular treks in Nepal. Some are ideal for beginners; others are complicated and only suitable for experienced trekkers. Some of the most popular trekking spots in Nepal are Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Pikey Peak Trekking, etc. There are some remote and restricted regions for trekking that fewer trekkers visit, like Nar Phu Valley Trek, Tsum Valley Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, and others.
The Himalayan mountains in Nepal are home to eight of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Trekkers love the fantastic views of the snow-capped mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and fields. Another primary reason for trekking in Nepal is to meet new people and learn about their culture and traditions. Nepal is a multi-ethnic country that lives in harmony with different rituals, festivals, and traditions, so trekking is a massive opportunity for cultural immersion. So, let’s explore some of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations, including the trek in a restricted area.
Most Popular Trekking
22 Days Kanchenjunga Trek
The 22-Day Kanchenjunga Trek is one of Nepal’s toughest challenges trekkers can face. You can visit one of the remote places of Nepal at an affordable price of just $2280 per person. The main attraction of this trekking spot is the trek around majestic Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586m). Some of the major attractions of the Kanchenjunga Trek are the magnificent views of mountains like Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Kabru, Kambachen, and Yalung Khang; during this trek, you will spend the majority of the time in the remote villages like Chirwa, Lelep, Amjilosa, Ghunsa, Gyabla, Kambachen and others.
Another major attraction of this trek is the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, where trekkers can get the opportunity to see rare wild animals like Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, and Red Pandas, among others. Kanchenjunga Trek is located in a highly isolated area, and when you climb altitude, the isolation gets deeper. After certain altitudes, there are no villages, settlements, or teahouses, so preparation for this trek is vital.
8 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter return
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among the most demanded trekking destinations in Nepal. Recently, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return package has been growing in the country.
If you book this package from us, then for just $1370 for two people, you can explore the majestic Annapurna region and return with a luxurious helicopter ride. The average duration of this trek is from 7 to 10 days. Some significant attractions of the ABC trek with helicopter return are the bird’s eye views of the mountains.
6 Days Pikey Peak Trekking
Pikey Peak Trek is one of the underrated treks in Nepal. Among other treks, it also falls under budget-friendly trek, so if you want to experience it, join Hillarysteptreks for an affordable starting price of just $670 per person. You’ll see one of the best views of Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. When you trek the Pikey Peak, you will see the stunning beauty of the Khumbu region from ancient monasteries, view of mountains, and lush vegetation.
Many Buddhist monasteries, gompas, and stupas provide a spiritual experience. The clean air from the Himalayas refreshes your body, mind, and soul. Even Sir Edmund Hillary, who discovered the famous Mount Everest summit, felt that the Pikey Peak trek was the best overall adventure. If you decide to experience Pikey Peak Trek, make sure you stay in homestays and teahouses and immerse in the culture of local Tamangs, Gurungs, and Tharu people.
10 Days Short Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek is Nepal’s most popular trekking spot, attracting hundreds of thousands of trekkers every year. This trek is also extraordinary as it can be curated as short or long based on your preference. If you choose this package, you can enjoy the Short Everest Base Camp Trek for just $1375 per person. One of the major attractions of Short Everest Base Camp Trek is trekking the region that leads to the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest.
The trek of the Khumbu region is unique as you will be trekking through some memorable areas like Lukla Airport, Phakding Airport, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Hotel Everest View, Dingboche, Kala Patthar, and Gorakhshep. This Short Everest Base Camp Trek takes only about ten days to complete, where you can enjoy the major attractions of the Khumbu region.
10 Days Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is one of the underrated treks in the Annapurna region, and it takes you on the fantastic trek of the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can join the Annapurna Sanctuary trek package for the starting price of $925 per person. You can also gain a group discount if you are trekking with more than one person. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek takes about 10 to 11 days to complete.
Some of the significant attractions of this trek are majestic views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Hiuchuli, etc. Furthermore, you will also explore other major attractions like Dhampus, Ghandruk, Bamboo, Himalaya, hot springs in Jhinu Danda, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
10 Days Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
Another popular trek in the Annapurna region is the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This trek can also be curated as short or long. This short Annapurna Circuit Trek with us can be completed in 10 days at a starting price of just $950 per person. The Annapurna Circuit trek covers a distance of 160 to 230 kilometers.
The length varies based on factors such as the use of motor transportation and the ending point of the trek. This route is well-known for its deep gorges, high mountain passes, viewpoints like Poon Hill, hot springs, and the presence of Buddhist and Hindu temples. Another major attraction of trekking the Annapurna Circuit is the opportunity to meet new people and immerse in their culture, traditions, diverse lifestyles, remote villages, and majestic views of mountains. This trek is different from the base camp trek, where you will trek in the off-the-beaten wilderness from the first day to the last.
15 Days Lower Dolpo Trek
If you want to experience adventure in Nepal and explore a raw and unexplored off-beaten region, Lower Dolpo Trek is the one you should choose. Book this trek package, which costs $2300 per person. Although this trek is less prevalent or commercialized than the Everest or Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it will still be fun and even more thrilling than other regions.
Some of the major attractions of this trek that the trekkers can explore are Nepalgunj, Baga La Pass, Numa La Pass, Chuchun Khola, She Phoksundo National Park, Phoksundo Lake, etc.
10 Days Gokyo Ri Trek
There are many popular treks in the Khumbu region, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Everest Three Passes Trek. One of the most popular treks is the Gokyo Ri Trek, which takes you to the Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Lakes, and the Gokyo Ri. The 10-day Gokyo Ri Trek package f costs $1375 per person.
Some of the major attractions of the Gokyo Ri Trek are the view from the Syangboche airport and the trek through Sherpa villages like Namche, Dole, Machhermo, Lukla, etc. The trek to Gokyo Valley and the hike to Gokyo Ri at 5357m is the true highlight, making it different from other treks.
Restricted and Challenging Trekking
16 Days Tsum Valley Trek
Some treks in Nepal are in restricted regions. One example is the Tsum Valley Trek, located in the Gorkha district in the western region of Nepal. Since the Tsum Valley trek is in a restricted region, the trekkers have to issue restricted area permits, among other licenses.
You can book this stunning trek package for the starting price of just $900 per person. Some of the major highlights or attractions of the Tsum Valley Treks are the trek through remote villages like Jagat, Lokpa, Chumlling, Chekang Paro, Nile, etc. They can also visit ancient Tibetan monasteries like Mu Gompa, Rachen Gompa, Dhephyu domna Gompa, Lungdang Gumba, views of the breathtaking mountains like Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Paldor Peak, Mount Manaslu and others.
14 Days Nar Phu Valley Trek
One of the famous but underrated restricted regions in the Annapurna region is the Nar Phu Valley Trek. This trek takes you to the two hidden villages in the Manang district in Nar and Phu, generating worldwide attention. This trekking package can also be booked via the Hillary Step Treks for the starting price of $1,049 per person, which you will explore for 14 Days.
Some major attractions of the Nar Phu Valley Trek are Nar and Phu Villages, Buddhist stupas, and Kang La Pass (5320m). On this trek, you will see some fantastic views of the mountains, like Lamjung Peak, Tilicho Peak, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
17 Days Hillary Classical Trek
Hillary Classical Trek is the highly underrated trek to the Everest Base Camp, which also passes through a restricted area, so they must possess restricted area permits. If you explore the Hillary Classical Trek packages, you must pay $1825 per person at the starting point.
The most popular reason for trekking Hillary Classical Trekking is to reach Phakding through routes like Bhandar, Kinja, Sete, Lamjura Pass, and Junbesi before reaching Phakding. Furthermore, you will also explore some of the regular places you will trek to during your EBC trek, like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Kala Patthar, and others.
13 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is another famous trekking destination in Nepal, which lies in the restricted region of Nepal. This trek package can take you to the majestic Manaslu Circuit at the starting point of $895 per person. Some of the major attractions of the Manaslu Circuit Trek are the Soti Khola River, Larkya La Pass, and Pungyen Monastery.
The views of the mountains during this trek, like Annapurna II, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru, are also majestic. The Manaslu Circuit Trek is starting to get a good reputation and attracting many trekkers. This is the fourth most popular trek behind the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions. So, if you want to explore Nepal’s off-beaten, unexplored area and get closer to nature, then explore Manaslu Circuit Trek.
15 Days Upper Mustang Trek
One of the most beautiful treks in Nepal also falls in the restricted area is the Upper Mustang Trek. This trek is among the most expensive in Nepal. If you decide to book the trek with the Hillary Step Treks, it will only cost about $1795 per person. However, you will also receive ideal discounts if you are trekking with other trekkers or in the group.
The major attraction of the Upper Mustang trek is the trek thang, which was the forbidden kingdom to the public until the public till 1992. If you time the trek from March to May, you can enjoy the local Tiji festival for three days. Other attractions of the Upper Mustang trek are Kagbeni, Jomsom, Charam, Chungsi Cave, Nyila Pass, Ghami, Drakmar, Samar, Muktinath, and others.
18 Days Everest Three High Pass Trek
The Everest region is famous mainly for the amazing Everest Base Camp Trek, but there are some other popular treks, like the Everest Three High Pass Trek. In the Everest Three High Pass Trek, you will reach the three high passes in the Khumbu region: Kongma La, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass. This trek starts at the cost of $1920 per person, but there are group discounts that can save you expenses.
You’ll first go through Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass. You’ll see snowy mountains, rocky paths, and clear lakes along the way, and have a great time in the Khumbu region. You’ll make unforgettable memories.
Short and Easy trekking
5 Days Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the major attraction for trekkers who don’t have enough time to spend 4-5 days. Since the days are short, the starting price is just $595 per person if you book the trek with us. This trek takes you to major exploring areas such as Annapurna Conservation Area, Jhinu Danda, and Hot Springs, as well as stunning views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and others.
Remember that the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek will risk altitude sickness since the trekkers don’t have enough days for acclimatization. So ensure you bring medication and get as much rest as possible during the evening.
5 Days Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is another short trek in Nepal that can be completed in about 4 to 5 days. It is among the easier treks in Nepal and, most importantly, in the Annapurna region. The Mardi Himal Trek is peaceful and easy in Nepal.
It’s great for people who want to see nature and culture without big crowds. You can visit farms, rivers, forests, and animals. You’ll also see impressive mountains like Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchre. The 5-day Mardi Himal Trek starting cost is about $420 per person. During this trek, you will visit places like Badal Danda Viewpoint, Deurali, Pothana, Australian Camp, and others.
7 Days Poon Hill Trek
Poon Hill Trek is among the most beautiful trek in Nepal. It lies in the Annapurna region and is also among the easy trek, which means it is ideal for beginners. Poon Hill Trek is also a cheap trek in Nepal as the 7-day trek starting cost is $570 per person.
One of the major attractions of the Poon Hill Trek is the stunning panoramic views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri. In this trek, you will pass through different villages like Ulleri, Tadapani, Ghorepani, Ghandruk, and Syaulibazar.
8 Days Langtang Valley Trek
One of Nepal’s easiest but equally popular treks is the Langtang Valley Trek. The Langtang region is Nepal’s third most popular trek after Everest and Annapurna. This trek lasts 7 to 10 days, and Hillarystep Treks has an excellent trekking package with a starting price of $715 per person.
Some major attractions of the Langtang Valley Trek are Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, Langtang National Park, Kyanjin Ri, Tserko Ri, and others. The views of mountains like Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lhakpa, Langshisa Ri, Gangchempo, and others.
Best Time to Trek in Nepal
Trekking in Nepal is fun and challenging. If the trekkers want to make the trek more fun and less demanding, trekking in the ideal conditions is the right move. The best time to trek in Nepal is dependent on the season. There are two ideal seasons for trekking: Spring and Autumn. So let’s learn about them.
Spring
Spring season is the most crowded season for trekking in Nepal. This season starts in March and ends in May. Trekkers are mainly attracted to the Spring season because of the sunny weather, mild temperature, and the flowering trails covering the hills and mountains through blooming rhododendrons and magnolias. The Spring season is also accessible from rainfall since it arrives past the winter season, and only the later part of May starts receiving rainfall in the region. Overall, the Spring season brings cheerful vegetation, sounds of birds and animals, and stunning views of skies and mountains.
Autumn
Autumn season is another ideal season for trekking in Nepal. Many trekkers even believe the Autumn season is better than the Spring season. This season starts in the middle of September and ends in November. Although the trails do not bloom with flowers in spring, the constant rain from the monsoon season flourishes the jungles and vegetation. The colors of leaves start turning brown, which makes the view of hills and skies golden at sunrise and sunset, making it ideal for clicking stunning pictures. In the autumn, the temperature is mild, and the weather is sunny with crisp views of the surroundings.
